Tips for Hosting your 1st Thanksgiving

1.     Accept food from family and friends! Don’t try to prepare everything yourself. If you have a signature dish, prepare it, but don’t be afraid to let someone else bring a big item like the Mac and Cheese or their good stuffing. This year, I forgot to prepare an appetizer for early guests, so I was very happy when a family member came early with a cheese and cracker platter.

2.     Don’t forget the wine. I always think of Thanksgiving dinner as the alcohol-free zone, at least while dinner is being eaten and enjoyed, but honestly, I was reminded this year, how a glass a wine never hurt any meal.

3.     Don’t be too formal. Having a great table setting is always a must if your hosting Thanksgiving, but don’t let it stiffen the occasion. This year, I had a cooler and filled it with ice, for those water bottles and sodas the are usually wanted later in the day when people are catching up, but really there’s no space in the refrigerator for another week or so. The cooler chills those drinks just fine and adds an element of relaxation to the day that can sometimes end up being a little too formal.

4.     Skip the candles, I didn’t place any candles on the table or anywhere this year, because I had almost as many children attending Thanksgiving as adults and I just didn’t want any accidents or tip toeing around for anybody.

5.     Plan at least one fun activity. Luckily, for me the football game draws everyone’s attention enough that I didn’t have to do too much, but a nice prayer or talking about how grateful we are or a game of Monopoly will keep your guests returning next year for more fun.